I am seriously considering declaring the GCH major. How do I decide whether the B.A. or B.S. is best for me?
Take our introductory course, GCH 1, Foundations for Global and Community Health! Students in this class explore the pathways through and opportunities in the GCH B.A. and B.S. majors. In addition, consulting with a GCH academic adviser is a critical way to further explore which degree most aligns with your aspirations and academics. In preparation, the decision-support table below may serve as one resource among many.
I am a first-year (frosh) student. What are the required major preparation courses that need to be completed for admission to the GCH B.S.?
In addition to the courses required for UC admission, high school students who intend to major in biology should take high school courses in biology, chemistry, advanced mathematics (precalculus and/or calculus), and physics. The Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology (MCD Biology) has a qualification policy that applies to the molecular, cell and developmental biology B.S.; global and community health B.S.; biology B.S. and neuroscience B.S. majors. For more information about these and other MCD biology majors, see the MCD Biology Undergraduate Program website. For specific information about the GCH B.S. degree, see the catalog.
I am a transfer student. What are the required major preparation courses that need to be completed before I come to UC Santa Cruz?
The B.S. major is a screening major. Junior transfer students who plan to major in the biological sciences must complete the qualification requirements prior to transfer.
Junior-level transfer students are also strongly encouraged to complete a year of organic chemistry, calculus, and calculus-based physics courses prior to transfer. This will prepare transfers to begin their advanced degree requirements and allow time in their senior year for doing research. California community college students should follow the prescribed coursework in the UCSC transfer agreements available at www.assist.org.
Prospective transfer students should review the transfer information and qualification requirements on the MCD Biology Transfer Student website and the UCSC Catalog.
Is there a GCH minor?
No, we currently do not have a minor in Global & Community Health. However, you are free to take as many undergraduate courses in global and community health as you would like, even if your major is not GCH.